The University of Minnesota (UMN) announced on Oct. 28, 2025 that they will no longer hold graduation ceremonies, effective spring 2026. This abrupt decision left Mounds View and at least 23 other schools stranded, wondering where they will have their graduations. After talks with other hosting sites, administration at Mounds View arranged a venue at the University of St. Thomas for the Class of 2026’s graduation ceremony.
The UMN released a statement to KARE 11 the following day after notifying schools of their decision. The university said it was a financial decision: “Hosting more than 20 outside events with thousands of attendees over a two-week period represents a significant strain on the University’s limited resources that is no longer sustainable,” said a spokesperson at the UMN.
Last year, a shooting occurred on the grounds of 3M Arena at Mariucci after a high school graduation ceremony. Some students believed that the tragedy was a prominent reason behind UMN’s decision. “I was a little bit surprised, but at the same time, I did remember the shooting that was happening nearby last year. It kind of made sense to me that’s why some parents might feel a bit not safe having it at the same place that it was last year,” said senior Rohan Nash. The university chose not to comment about the shooting.
Many schools, including Mounds View, have had to make quick adjustments following the announcement. “They surprised a lot of schools. It was very unexpected, and they did so at a time where all these other high schools already had their dates and venues booked,” said Principal Rob Reetz.
Administrators worked to secure a suitable alternative venue that could accommodate the large number of graduates and families. The University of St. Thomas’s Lee and Penny Anderson Arena was chosen because of its access to parking and its location on a college campus. Administration at Mounds View have been working diligently to guarantee the safety of all attendees. “St. Thomas then assures us that they will have necessary campus police and St. Paul police on hand to help with both traffic and safety,” Reetz said. Following this, a statement sent to students in the seniors and their parents announced that the graduation ceremony will be held at the University of St. Thomas.
While some parents and seniors expressed disappointment in leaving behind the long standing tradition of graduating in the 3M Arena at Mariucci, others see the move as an opportunity for a fresh start in a new space that still celebrates the accomplishments of seniors. “I think I’m a little bit more excited because we’re going to be the first year that it’s going to be not at the [3M Arena], and so it’s going to be different this year,” said Nash.
The UMN’s decision marks the end of a decades-long tradition for many high schools in the Twin Cities area. Although the change was abrupt, schools like Mounds View acted quickly to ensure that the Class of 2026 will still have a memorable and meaningful graduation ceremony. “My hope is that the acoustics are better, and that this arena, being that it’s brand new, is just that much more of a beautiful, formal setting,” said Reetz.